In terms of feel-good stories in these NBA playoffs, there aren’t many better than Shaun Livingston.

Even for those casual fans whose rooting interest lies with the Raptors, there’s something uplifting about Livingston, his remarkable story from a career-threatening, life-changing knee injury, the reverential reception he receives from his Nets teammates, his unselfish role on a Brooklyn team built to contend for a title.

Livingston has always respected the game, appreciates all it has to offer, but this moment serves to heighten all those emotions and feelings only adversity provides.

It’s been eight years since Livingston last played in the post-season. A year later, his career was suddenly in peril when he shattered his knee.

“My emotions are at an all-time high,” said Livingston following Friday’s practice. “It’s exciting, but you have to keep everything under control.